At first glance, the ’80s wouldn’t seem like great fodder for a sitcom. Reagan, corporate greed and narcissism were all in during that decade.

But it was also a time when Madonna, Boy George, “Miami Vice” and “Dynasty” dictated the fashion that many wore, and Pat Benatar, Wham! and Thompson Twins ruled the charts. That’s the era “That ’80s Show,” which debuts at 8 tonight on Fox, so flawlessly recaptures.

Creators Terry Turner, Mark Brazill and Linda Wallem have struck again, as “That ’80s Show,” like its brother, the hit Fox show “That ’70s Show,” successfully brings to life a time fondly remembered by later baby boomers and early Generation X-ers alike.

The show, set in 1984 San Diego, centers around Corey (played by Glenn Howerton), a wannabe musician. He lives with his sister Katie (Tinsley Grimes), a college dropout who’s now a candle entrepreneur, and his father RT (Geoff Pierson), who’s about to ride the fitness wave with his “Gut Whacker.” His best friend, Roger (Eddie Shin) idolizes Reagan and listens to motivational tapes while working his way into corporate America. His girlfriend Sophia (Brittany Daniel) has dumped him to explore her bisexuality.

His only respite is at his job at Permanent Record, the music store owned by Margaret (Margaret Smith), a woman who lived to talk about her experiences during the “Summer of Love.” But that oasis is about to be invaded by new co-worker Tuesday (Chyler Leigh), a punk rocker with a mohawk and plenty of attitude.

The show’s attention to detail will bring a knowing smile to members of that all-important 18-to-49 demographic. But once viewers get past that well-integrated atmosphere, it’s the dynamic among the characters that makes “That ’80s Show” work. The characters and their experiences are ones with which many can identify.

“That ’80s Show” is a worthy addition to Fox’s growing Wednesday comedy lineup, which includes the acerbic “The Bernie Mac Show” and the dark “Titus.” It’s a totally awesome trip back in time.